Jones turns back on Germany to play for USA

Schalke midfielder Jermaine Jones will not play for the German national team and will in future represent the United States.

The 27-year-old has made three appearances for Germany but since all three of his caps came in friendly matches, he is still permitted to represent another nation.

As well as holding German citizenship, Jones also has a US passport and has therefore decided to switch allegiances.

He informed the German Football Association (DFB) of his decision today.

"We have accepted Jermaine Jones' decision," said Germany coach Joachim Loew in a statement. "I wish him all the best for his sporting future."

Jones played against Austria on February 6, 2008, Belarus on May 27, 2008 and England on November 19, 2008, but according to the new constitution agreed by football's world governing body FIFA recently, this does not preclude him from a change.

And Germany will not try to block him from appearing for the USA in future.

"We have often emphasised how much we like to welcome many players with backgrounds of immigration into the Germany national team," explained team manager Oliver Bierhoff. "This reflects the development of society in our country, but we have always emphasised that anybody who wears the DFB colours must identify with the national team and Germany.

"If a player does not see things this way, then that is his decision and we respect it."

Loew recently awarded international debuts to Brazil-born striker Cacau and Mesut Ozil, who had the option of representing Turkey.

Jones' father hails from the USA, which accounts for his dual citizenship.